Obituary for James Twite

James was born September 21, 1964, to Kathryn (Hjellming) McGowan and LaVerne Twite in Caledonia, MN. He attended elementary school in Freeburg and high school in Caledonia. James had many jobs over his lifetime. He spent years logging with his dad and bartending at Sonny & Bev’s before going into maintenance for the last 20+ years. James was known for his hard work and dedication being a maintenance man and overall “fix it” guy.

James married the love of his life, Joni Rud, June 29, 1996. Together they raised three children, Joshua, Jadi, and Jenna. James loved spending time with his family, especially since his grandchildren came along. He’d never admit it, but being the firstborn, everyone knew Ariey was his favorite! Although he didn’t see them in person all the time, he could be found talking with his kids or grandkids on his flip-phone or asking Joni to FaceTime them; mainly because he refused to learn how to operate a smartphone.

James enjoyed hunting, fishing, and doing anything outdoors. Throughout his life, James could be found with his best friend, Harry, touring the backroads, checking out all of the garage sales, or “junking.” James was an avid fan of the Minnesota Vikings. Although they never seemed to play exactly how he wanted, you could guarantee he’d be at the kitchen table watching the TV every Sunday afternoon.

James spent many years riding Harley Davidson’s, until recently he traded two wheels in for four, and bought a Jeep. James was meticulous about how his vehicles looked. He always spent so much time polishing and shining them, only to ride around town, and park them again until the next time. Most recently, he spent many of his weekends at the derby track with his son, Josh. The two traveled all over the United States for the sport, even making the 15-hour trek to Tennessee last fall. No matter how much the two argued about how to build or fix the cars, James was always there to show his unconditional support. We’ll continue “Jammin’ for Jimmy” in his memory.

James is survived by his loving wife, Joni, and three children, Josh (Kiah Halvorson) of Harmony, Jadi (Donny) Lund, of Denver, IA, Jenna (Will Barnes) of Caledonia; grandchildren, Ariey, Donald, and Kaizlynn Lund, Harper Twite, and step-grandchildren, Caiden, Connor, Aubriana, Kynleigh, and Ozyus Lund; siblings Jill (Greg) Hahn of Freeburg; Joy (Dale) Gavin of Winona, Jeff Twite and Julie Twite, both of Caledonia; father LaVerne and step-mother, Annette Twite of Houston; mother-in-law, Beverly Rud of Spring Grove; brother-in-law, Jeff (Kris) Rud of Spring Grove; and many nieces, nephews, and close friends.

James is preceded in death by his mother, Kathryn McGowan; step-father, Donald “Buck” McGowan; sister, Jane Twite; father-in-law, Elmer “Sonny” Rud; and niece, Erin Rud.

The Twite family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to Heartland Hospice for their continued support and assistance through this difficult time. A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, June 8, 2025, at 3 pm at the Immanuel Lutheran Church in Caledonia with visitation two hours prior. Fellowship and a light lunch to follow at Elsie’s Bar and Grill.